Our City Fort Lauderdale - October 2022

BY: LINDADEMASSI.COM

HEROES

Publishers

Christy & Terry Jaillet publisher@ourcitymedia.com

Managing Editor

Christy Jaillet

Art Director

Tom Rowe

Graphic Designer

Alana Brodie

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John Brodie, Denise Caligiuri, Adrienne Collins, Caleb Furlong, Nancy Koval, Mariem Garcia, Carlos Medina, Kenny Rodgers, Silvia Silva

Contributing Writers

Terry Jaillet, Dr. Michael Cohen, Dr. Robert Donoway, Amelis Lopez, Dean Sklar, Mayor Dean Trantalis

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Our City Media of Florida, LLC publishes FREE monthly, local community news magazines throughout South Florida. Our City Media Magazines are mailed monthly to affluent single-family homes, condos and businesses in their respective communities. Monthly mailings are verifiable by USPS postage statements. Additional free copies are available at selected locations throughout the communities served and upon request by contacting the publisher. Opinions expressed by the writers are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Publisher. Our City Media of Florida, LLC reserves the right to edit and/or reject any editorial or advertising content. Our City Media of Florida, LLC is not responsible for errors in advertising beyond the cost of the space or for the validity of claims made by advertisers. Entire contents copyrighted 2022 by Our City Media of Florida, LLC. Reproduction in whole or in part is forbidden in any media without prior written permission from the publisher.

SELLERS, IS THE PARTY OVER?

By Rose Sklar

Well, it has definit ely changed.

We are in a very price-sensitive mar ket. Let’s take a look at what has happened just this year.

In May, we had a hard stop on the escalation of prices that happened in 2021. So in a sense, the Premium Pricing Party of 2021 came into the New Year and then stopped in May. What most consumers miss though is that the price escalation of 2021 and early 2022 held and gave us a new marker to start with that is much higher than 2019 and 2020 but is not escalating the same way it did in 2021, which we all know would not have been healthy overall for any market. What was different about this fast escalation is that it did not drop in the same fashion that it grew. That’s good news.

Now more than ever, sellers need to evaluate their pricing when coming to the “new market” and recent changes in the real estate market. Many sellers still choose to make the mistake of overpricing their homes to “test” the market or pricing their homes based on the escalation that occurred in 2021 that ended in May 2022. A savvy seller looks at all the variables and pays close attention to buyer habits. Right now, the prices are still up, just not as much as they were going up last year. The bottom line in putting a home on the market is that there is a big difference between having your home “on the market” and “in the market.” If you want to sell your home, then price it to attract the pool of buyers in the market.

Now more than ever, overpricing your home can cause you to miss potential offers and potentially miss the “current” market that seems to be rising, just not as high as it rose last year. You risk buyers thinking that you’re not serious or are holding out for your reach price. You may also be pricing yourself out of the pool of buyers who are obtaining financing. If you are a serious seller, it’s a good time to get realistic and not “hope” you can get an unrealistic price. As many pundits will tell you, “Hope is not a strategy.”

There are still some properties that receive multiple offers. The homes that are still selling

fast typically have one of a few features: highly renovated homes, with a focus on kitchen, bathrooms, and flooring, a new roof, current impact glass/hurricane protection, and of course Location. Location. Location (water, golf, ocean, or Intracoastal). Renovations matter a lot in this low inventory market. With a huge deficit of new construction for the high buyer pool, and the fact that buyers realize the value of the work, a freshly renovated home is much more valuable. Add to that the time and continued rising costs for renovations, product scarcity, and the difficulties in finding good/reputable/ timely contractors will make a freshly painted, newly landscaped, and updated property much more attractive.

Also, home preparation and presentation are key to securing your best offer. We all have to start to come to the realization as rates continue to be on the rise, affordability will play a part in it. Higher rates mean lower qualifying mortgage amounts and lower buying power. Here's what you can do to hedge the reset: Renovate, paint and put some elbow grease and DIY projects into your home preparation repertoire. As the clunker homes sit on the market, getting stale, like a supermodel with spinach in their teeth, the trick is to present your property in its best light. And here is how we can help: Our win-win game-changing program RealVitalize. This program is again a necessity for sellers to continue getting top dollar. Let the program do the work for you, with zero percent interest rate on the cost, paid at the closing. The ball is in your court. Renovate & recoup is our best advice.

Yes, it is still a great time to buy! Yes, Rates are up and we still have low inventory, but growing as more sellers are coming to the market. The best time to buy and sell is in a stable market or quite frankly, when you need to or

want to buy or sell. At the end of the day, we live, work and play in our homes. You can’t live, work and play in any other investment that historically rises over time, albeit at different rates. Can you live in your stocks or really say your car increases in value?

Jump into the real estate market today so you don’t look back and say, “You wish you did!” We are off to the races again and the party is still a really good one!

Rose Sklar, Coldwell Banker Realty. Team founder Sklar Team with offices in Weston and Fort Lauderdale

• #1 Coldwell Banker Team in Broward County 2018, 2019, 2020 and 2021

• Ranked #1 Agents in the City of Weston for 14 Consecutive Years! 2008-2021

• Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate SOCIETY OF EXCELLENCE 2015-2021

“Our City” Salutes Healthcare Heroes

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month. Each year, we see the color pink in unexpected places. Whether it’s high school foot ball players wearing pink socks to salute a mom’s struggle or a coworker adorning their shirt with a pink ribbon, the global Breast Cancer Awareness campaign has shone a light on breast cancer and helped raise billions in research funding.

Breast Cancer has impacted the Our City Media family as well. We have had family mem bers struggle with a diagnosis and recover and have seen others succumb to the disease. One thing we saw again and again, however, was the tireless efforts of healthcare workers. These men and women have dedicated their lives to help people live as healthily as possible.

According to the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity, there are almost 1 million Floridians employed in the healthcare sector. There are 83,000 doctors, 190,000 nurses, 66,000 EMTs and Paramedics, and hundreds of thousands of support staff.

These “front line” workers have been asked to do more in the past three years than at any time in a generation. We decided to recognize a few of these “Healthcare Heroes” in this month’s Our City magazine. Turn to page 24 to learn more about some of the people who are making an impact in the community. It is nice to know they are there for us when we need them.

Thank You to all of the healthcare professionals who are helping us live our best lives from all of us at Our City Media.

Sincerely,

Terry Jaillet

October 2022 Calendar

OCTOBER 1

Kids Adventures After Dark

Kids rule at MODS! Children ages 6 to 12 years old are invited to an evening of fun and science with MODS educators. Care givers will enjoy a kid-free night out while children have an action-packed evening exploring MODS after dark. The Museum adventure includes pizza, IMAX*, exhibit exploration, as well as cool science shows and activities! Hosted at the Museum of Discovery & Science. 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm. For info call 954-713-0930. Scan the QR code to book.

OCTOBER 8-9

11th Annual Brazilian Festival

OCTOBER 15

Oceanside Park Farmers, Antique and Artisian Market

The Las Olas Oceanside Park Farmers, Antiques, and Artisan Market takes place every Saturday at Las Olas Oceanside Park. Join us and delight in an eclectic array of traditional fare, including fresh produce, cheese, baked items, plants, handmade goods, jewelry, and more. 9:00 am - 5:00 pm at Fort Lauderdale Beach, 3000 E. Las Olas Boulevard. For more scan the QR code.

OCTOBER 6

Artful Minds

Head to NAMI Broward County for Artful Minds. The exhibit will showcase the relationship between art and mental health through artwork in a variety of mediums, created by artists living with mental illness or who address the theme of mental health. The event will also include entertainment, networking, hors d’oeuvres and cocktails. Funds raised from the event will help NAMI Broward County reach their goal of help ing hundreds of thousands of people in Broward County living with mental illness and their families/caregivers by providing support services they need. Scan the QR code for ticket info.

“A Love Letter to the Amazon Forest and the many Cultures of Brazil.” Florida’s most tra ditional multicultural festival is back at Sny der Park, in Fort Lauderdale. International Concerts, Samba Dancers, Carnival Rides, 100 Exhibitors, and Food Vendors. The Amazing Journey into Brazil’s Art, Culture, Tradition and Cuisine, From the traditional Brazilian “Rodizio, Churrasco, Vatapa, Pao de Queijo e Pastel” to the Sweet Dream of “Brigadeiros, Cocadas, Doce de leite, e Pamonha”. This is the taste of the Brazilian Cuisine featured by all the small business es of Broward in tents especially created to offer a dream day in Brazil’s Flavor-land. Hosted at Snyder Park, 3299 SW 4th Ave, Fort Lauderdale. For tickets and more info visit www.brazilianfestival.org.

OCTOBER

First Street Cars and Coffee

Do you know the difference between a su percar and a hypercar? Head on over to the First Street Cars and Coffee event and find out. This FREE event allows attendees to check out the amazing machines that have hit the road over the years. There will be ev erything from classic Bentleys to brand new Ferraris and everything in between. 9:00 am - noon between 501-599 NE 1st Street, in Downtown Fort Lauderdale. For more info visit www.firststreetcarsandcoffee.com.

OCTOBER 11-13

Beginning Watercolor Workshop

Embark on a creative adventure by joining fine artist, Barbara DiMartini, for this exciting, informative, 3-day, 9-hour workshop. If you want to learn to paint, watercolor is a relative ly inexpensive and rewarding way to begin. Watercolor theories and techniques are appli cable to all painting mediums, but unlike other mediums, such as oil and acrylic, it is readily portable, clean up is quick, and easy (just use water!), and it’s nontoxic. For more info call 954-703-2606 or visit www.bonnethouse.org.

October 2022 Calendar (CONTINUED)

OCTOBER 23

Pumpkins & Palm Trees

OCTOBER 15-16

Las Olas Art Fair

The Las Olas Art Fair is ranked as one of the top 100 art festivals in the nation and continues to be one of the most anticipated art events in the area. Meet the creators of the art on display; commission a specific piece; ask questions about techniques; learn the sources of their inspirations; and purchase fine works of art at affordable prices. No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll be sure to find it on Las Olas at this always anticipated, juried art fair. Hosted at Las Olas Blvd,10:00 am - 5:00 pm. Scan QR Code for more info. Scan the QR code for info.

We may not have falling leaves, but we can still celebrate the season at the 2nd Annual Pumpkins & Palm Trees! Throughout the day, attendees can celebrate the harvest season under the sun and swaying palms at Las Olas Oceanside Park in a fair-like atmosphere with tasty fall flavors, local vendors, live music, contests, and activities to celebrate Fall’s arrival, Florida-style. Fam ilies and well-behaved dogs on leashes are encouraged to dress in costume to capture fun photo moments and prizes. The FREE event takes place at Las Olas Oceanside Park from 9:00 am - 4:00 pm. Scan the QR Code for more info!

OCTOBER 28

Disney in Concert: Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas

“This year, Christmas will be ours!” From the mind of Tim Burton, experience the haunt ing holiday classic, The Nightmare Before Christmas with score by Danny Elfman performed live by South Florida Symphony Orchestra. The film will be screened live with audio and musical accompaniment by South Florida Symphony Orchestra. Hosted in the Au-Rene Theater at The Broward Center for the Performing Arts. For tickets and info scan the QR code.

OCTOBER 26-30

Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show

OCTOBER 22

Making Strides Walk

For more than two decades, Making Strides Against Breast Cancer has united communi ties in the fight against this deadly disease and funded breakthrough research, 24/7 support for breast cancer patients, and ac cess to lifesaving screenings. Today, Mak ing Strides is the largest network of breast cancer events in the nation. For more info scan the QR code.

The Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show is the greatest boat show on the seven seas. Located steps from the beach in sunny South Florida, FLIBS spans nearly 90 acres across three million square feet of exhibit space that is connected by an intricate network of water and ground transportation services. The five-day show attracted over 100,000 attendees and 1,000 exhibitors representing 52 countries with more than 1,300 boats on display in 2021. Products range from sunglasses to superyachts and everything in between. For tickets & more info visit www.flibs.com.

OCTOBER 31

Happy Halloween

Trick or Treating will likely be a bit different this year than in years past. Kids will still be dressing up, playing games, and maybe even playing a trick or two on a friend or family member. We remind everyone to have fun and stay safe!

Get Perfectly Polished at L’ACQUA Nail Spa

By Our City Staff Nail

tips and is gentle on the nails especially for those who are sensitive to the drill used for acrylics. An adhesive is polished on and dipped into the color powder of your choice. Clients can choose from over 200 dipping powder colors. If they are going for a classic Frenchlook, we also have French dipping powder.

What can you tell us about your facial services?

We offer different types of facials to meet each clients’ individual needs. From extractions and masks to a variety of peels, every facial comes with a free consultation. We have a licensed nurse who can do a consult for facial peels.

How can customers learn more about L’ACQUA Nail Spa?

Clients can follow us on Instagram @lacquanailspaflorida for our latest nail trends or go on Facebook. com/lacqua.nailspa

Are you offering any specials to our readers?

Absolutely! Readers may receive $5 off dipping powder, $5 off any pedicure $50 and up, and $10 off any facial. Please note that each discount may not be combined with any other offers/discounts.

It may not be used for gift card purchases.

▸ L’ACQUA Nail Spa is located at 1428 South Powerline Road, Pompano Beach, FL 33069 They are open Monday-Saturday from 9:30 am - 7:30 pm and Sunday from 11 am - 5 pm. Clients are welcome to walk-in or make an appointment by calling 954-532-0601.

L’ACQUA Nail Spa was one of the first salons in South Florida to offer disposable pedicure basin liners, nail files, buffers, and foot pumice stones. Additionally, to ensure there is no cross-contamination, they use a medical autoclave to sterilize their implements. Sterilization and cleanliness, among the numerous services available, are what set the premier nail spa apart from others in the area.

Clients adore their wide selection of unique pedicures such as the signature “Jelly Pedi”. The relaxing treatment moisturizes the skin and soothes dry, achy feet. It has aloe and fragrant oils to effectively reduce sweating and odor. Other popular menu items are facials, permanent makeup, microblading, eyelash extensions, and of course dipping powder manicures.

L’ACQUA uses the best products in the industry such as OPI®, Color Club®, and Kiara Sky®. Clients can always be sure that the latest colors, brands, and trends are always available. Complimentary beverages including wine are also offered to make everyone who enters feel right at home.

Sandy Nguyen, owner of L’ACQUA Nail Spa took some time to answer some commonly asked questions about her salon.

What is the most popular service currently?

Our most popular service is dipping powder. Dipping powder is an alternative to gel polish and acrylic. It is applied with or without

FORT LAUDERDALE IS “MAKING STRIDES” AGAINST BREAST CANCER ON OCTOBER 22ND

Since 1993, the American Cancer Society Making Strides Against Breast Cancer® (MSABC) campaign has united communities, companies, and individuals with a collective goal to end breast cancer as we know it.

Over the past two decades, the 3- to 5-mile noncompetitive walks have collectively grown into the nation’s largest and most impactful breast cancer movement providing a supportive community for courageous breast cancer survivors and metastatic breast cancer thrivers, including caregivers, and families alike.

Hundreds of Broward County residents will hit the street to beat Breast Cancer on Saturday, October 22. The walk will start at 7:30 am at Huizenga Plaza on Las Olas Boulevard. All are invited to participate and contribute.

This year, Making Strides Against Breast Cancer celebrates its 30th anniversary and will take place in more than 150 communities nationwide. Since its inception the campaign has raised millions of dollars for research and support programs. This year, the

walks are expected to raise more than $60 million.

According to the American Cancer Society journal, a Cancer Journal for Clinicians, there will be an estimated 1.9 million new cancer cases diagnosed in 2021 and 608,570 cancer deaths in the United States. Given the pandemic, it’s believed that people with active cancer may be more susceptible to COVID-19, because of their impaired immune system.

For that, the Broward chapter wants to ensure everyone that even if they cannot attend in person, the success of this event will depend on enthusiastic individuals who commit to raising funds, in addition to generous donors who will support those participants.

The American Cancer Society envisions a future where our children no longer live with the threat of breast cancer and where everyone has a fair and just opportunity to prevent, find, treat, and survive this disease. By supporting the Making Strides movement, you help ensure the American Cancer Society can continue fighting for that same vision. Together, we can help fund the future of breast cancer research and programs for our loved ones

▸ The American Cancer Society (ACS) is a nationwide voluntary health organization dedicated to eliminating cancer. Established in 1913, the society is organized into six geo graphical regions of both medical and lay vol unteers operating in more than 250 Regional offices throughout the United States. To learn more, find volunteer opportunities or donate call 800-227-2345 or visit www.cancer.org

Fort Lauderdale Aquatic Center Now Open! FREE through the End of October

The City of Fort Lauderdale recently completed renovations to the Fort Lauderdale Aquatic Center, with all of the new, state-of-the-art pools opening to the public on September 12. The new facility also includes the city’s one-of-a-kind 27-meter diving tower.

Fort Lauderdale’s rich history as the Venice of America and the Bahia Mar Yacht Basin inspired the tower’s design, including flared platforms resembling a ship hull. This spectacular 27-meter dive tower includes nine platform levels and

can accommodate up to twelve springboards.

Fort Lauderdale is renowned as a long-stand ing leader among aquatic destinations. Since opening the first Olympic size swimming pool in the State of Florida in 1928, then the swimming Hall of Fame in 1965.

Fort Lauderdale’s swimming heritage dates back to the Civitan raft off Las Olas Boulevard and the monumental Casino Pool, which followed in 1928. As the first pool of Olympic size (50mx20m) in Florida, it remained at the forefront of the swimming scene for nearly half a century and consequently witnessed a great deal of American swimming history.

The Fort Lauderdale Aquatic Complex is home to U.S. National Team Champions, the Fort Lauderdale Dive Team (FLDT), and Swim Fort Lauderdale (SFTL). Swim Fort Lauderdale is an award winning USA Swimming and U.S.

Masters Swimming team. In 2012, SFTL earned USA Swimming Level 3 club honors and was recognized by USA Swimming as a Silver Medal National Club of Excellence.

Top celebrate the project’s completion. admission to the swim center will be FREE through October 31. Visitors will still have to pay for parking, however.

▸ The Fort Lauderdale Aquatic Center is located at 501 Seabreeze Blvd. and is open daily. For more info visit parks.fortlauderdale.gov or call 954-828-7275.

Everyone who has lived in South Florida for a considerable amount of time is familiar with King Tides. At certain times of the year, high tide will grow to very very high tide.

While the term ‘king tide’ isn’t a scientific term, it is used to describe an especially high tide event when there is alignment of the gravitational pull between the sun and moon.

With seven miles of shoreline; 300 miles of waterway coastline; a flat topog raphy; and shallow, porous aquifer, Fort Lauderdale is vulnerable to the effects of climate change and sea level rise. Flooding in low-lying areas is more likely when the close proximity of the moon, higher than average tides called king tides, rising sea levels, and inclement weather conditions combine to exacer bate flooding risks.

Rainfall, wind strength, and wind direction can significantly impact the height of the tides, causing them to come in higher or lower than predicted. Also, high water tables (groundwater level) due to rain events can raise the probability of localized flooding.

The city has invested in a number of mitigation strategies to help manage higher-than-usual tides. These include maintaining tidal valves, storm drains, and catch basins; investing in pump stations to remove flood water from streets; and implementing more rigid rules for sea walls on waterfront property.

Be Prepared for King Tides

Neighbors are advised to be vigilant during high tides and king tides. Please take the time to be aware of the antici pated king tide dates, review important safety tips, evaluate your property’s readiness, and review your flood insur ance policy.

During high tides, residents should closely monitor trash bins, and remove them from the street as quickly as possi ble after they are emptied. If your street floods, you may want to store your sani tation carts in a safe and secure location until your next regularly scheduled collection day. View the sanitation service tips page for more information.

Tide Predictions

Tide predictions are generated by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and can differ from the observed sea level that occurs. Predicted tidal heights are those expected during average weather and oceanic conditions. When weather conditions differ from what is considered average, water levels can be significantly altered. Generally, prolonged onshore winds (wind towards the land) or low barometric pressure can produce higher sea levels than predicted, while offshore winds (wind away from the land) and high barometric pressure can result in lower sea levels than predicted.

▸ Fort Lauderdale maintains a number of useful resources on tides and flooding risk. Residents may contact the City’s 24-Neighbor Service Center at 954828-8000 with questions or concerns or to report incidents of flooding. Customer Service may also be reached via Lauder Serv, the City’s mobile application.

Las Olas Boulevard to Host 35th Annual Art Fair

now stretches along the Boulevard and includes three weekends throughout the year.

Considered an annual tradition in South Florida, the Las Olas Art Fair offers the opportu nity to meet with the artists, ask about techniques, commission a specific piece and discover the inspiration behind each magnificent creation. The iconic event takes place from 10 am to 5 pm on both days. Las Olas Boulevard has everything for a wonderful evening out, or a relaxing day window-shopping and dining at one of the fabulous sidewalk cafes.

Fort Lauderdale will host the 35th annual Las Olas Art Fair on October 15th and 16th. Whether you are looking for a unique item to round out your personally curated art collection or a hand-made bracelet to round out your favorite outfit, you are sure to find what you need at the annual event.

This festival brings together longtime favor ites with some of the newest names in the contemporary art scene. The festival which began decades ago as a small block festival,

The Las Olas Art Fair is ranked as one of the top 100 art festivals in the nation and continues to be one of the most anticipated art events in the area. Learn the sources of the artists’ inspirations, purchase fine works of art at affordable prices or just browse the incredible creations on display. No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll be sure to find it on Las Olas at this always anticipated, juried art fair.

The Las Olas Art Fair is an outdoor Art Festival on E. Las Olas Boulevard. The festival takes place October 15th and 16th from 10:00 am - 5:00 pm. Scan the QR Code for more info.

YOUR FIRST CALL TO GET HELP

Did you know there is a resource to help every person living in Broward County find the resources they need? Just dial 211 on your phone to become connected to 211 Broward. They can help you find food, housing, health care, elder care services, child care, legal aid, mental health support, and much more.

211 Broward is the only 24/7 comprehensive agency in the county that provides individuals and families with all of the critical connections to health and human service services they need in just one call, chat, email, or text. This 24-hour helpline is available to every individual and family in Broward County!

211 is a free, anonymous, 24-hour helpline offering listening support, information, referral, and crisis services. Their professional, degreed staff connects people in need with nearly 3,800 programs and services that are available to help

them. Bilingual staff and telephone interpreter services ensure that callers can talk with us in the language of their choice.

211 offers people access to a variety of resources including:

• Crisis and Suicide Care

• Mental Health Services

• Substance Abuse Treatment

• Military and Veteran Services

• Health and Wellness Referrals

• Sexual Health Services

• COVID-19 Assistance

• Confidential Help for Teens

• New Parent Help

• Older Adult and Adult Caregiver Services

• Much more…

211 is available to help people in almost any circumstances. 211 Broward was established

as a 501(c)(3) in 1995. Every hour of every day, someone in Broward searches for help or services. Knowing where to go is the first step to getting your needed help.

▸ If you need help for any reason, dial 211 on your mobile phone today

THE 2ND ANNUAL PUMPKINS & PALM TREES IS SET FOR OCTOBER 23 RD

Live Music by Matthew Sabatella and the Rambling String Band

11:00 am - 3:00 pm

With vocals, guitar, banjo, fiddle, mandolin, and bass fid dle, Matthew Sabatella and the Rambling String Band connect people with music that is woven into the fabric of the United States. Carrying on the tradition of oldtime, pre-bluegrass string bands and songsters, they raise the roof with traditional folk songs, fiddle tunes, old-time country, bluegrass, Appalachian music, ragtime, blues, spirituals, railroad, and cowboy songs, work songs, sea shanties, reels, breakdowns, ballads, and more.

Celebrate the season steps from the sand at the 2nd Annual Pumpkins & Palm Trees Fall Fest returns to Fort Lauderdale Beach. Throughout the day, attendees can celebrate the harvest season under the sun and swaying palms at Las Olas Oceanside Park in a fair-like atmosphere with tasty fall flavors, local vendors, live music, contests, and activities to celebrate Fall’s arrival, Florida-style.

Families and well-behaved dogs on leashes are encouraged to dress in costume to capture fun photo moments and prizes. The community event is open to everyone with an incredible schedule of activities:

Farmers, Antique and Artisan Market

9:00 am - 4:00 pm

Sip, shop & stroll through the local vendors, artists, farmers’ market. There will be an eclectic array of traditional fare, including fresh produce, cheese, baked items, plants, handmade goods, jewelry, and more. Be sure to bring the family to the Fall & Halloween themed photo stations as well!

Best Pie Contest

9:30 am - 11:00 am

Professional and cottage industry bakers are invited to show off their pumpkin spice and everything nice in the Annual Pie Baking Competition. Pies will be judged by flavor, crust, filling, and creativity by some of South Florida’s favorite foodies.

Halloween Games & Activities

10:00 am - 3:00 pm

Take a stroll down the Trick-or-Treat trail, play lawn games or craft a pumpkin from the pumpkin patch. There will also be a corn hole competition and bobbing for apples.

Fall Flavors Cooking Demonstration

By Chef Jira Baird, Pastry Chef, The Ritz-Carlton & Chef Carissa DaSilva, Pastry Chef, Marriott Harbor Beach Resort & Spa

11:30 am - 2:30 pm

Chec Baird and Chef DaSilva will show onlookers the “tricks of the trade” needed to make the perfect Autumn treats. Onlookers will not only get to watch, but you just might get to sample their creations.

▸

For more info about the Pumpkins & Palm Trees event visit www.theloopflb.com.

hey live in our community. They are our next-door neighbors, moms at the PTA meeting, dads who coach football, and young professionals who volunteer at the harvest drive. They do all the everyday things we all do. They go to the grocery store, plan vacations, exercise at the gym, and dine at their favorite restaurants.

They also save lives. Our community is filled with HEALTHCARE HEROES They all help us to live healthier lives. Whether it’s the EMT who responds to 911 calls, a nurse at the hospital, the oncologist treating cancer, your family dentist, or your local eye doctor. These heroes treat what ails us and help us live better quality lives. We’ve included a selection of some of the heroes from our community who are making an impact, enjoy!

Michele Lapayowker, DO,

Lovely Lady Gynecology

Dr. Lapayowker is a Board Certified Gynecologist who has been caring for women in Broward and the surrounding counties since 1995. Dr. Lapayowker cares for each patient individually and has a gentle approach to women of all ages. As a female gynecologist, she takes pride in truly under standing from both personal and professional experiences a woman’s health concerns.

A passion for supporting women’s health and understanding the unique medical issues that women face is what sets Dr. Lapayowker apart. She has a tremendous rapport with teens, adults, and mature women going through their transition and menopausal years, and is able to relate to each stage of the life cycle to give every patient individualized care. Her practice incorporates women’s health maintenance, and she teaches her patients the importance of disease preven tion and personal health management.

Dr. Lapayowker is a tremendously thoughtful physician who listens to her patients in order to help them get the best medical care possible. Her ability to communicate openly and set her patients at ease makes her uniquely qualified.

■

To make an appointment with Dr.Lapayowker or learn more about Lovely Lady GYN, call 954-472-2201 or visit www.LovelyLadyGYN.com.

Anand Vakharia, MD

Dr. Anand Vakharia is a boardcertified primary care physician with extensive experience in both inpatient hospitalist medicine, as well as outpatient family practice. He has practiced medicine in Wisconsin, North Carolina, and New York. Most recently, he served as Medical Director at Mount St. Mary’s Hospital in Lewiston NY, where he was also named Regional Medical Director of the Year for all of Western NY.

Dr. Vakharia had always dreamed of return ing home to serve the community he grew up in, while working alongside his father. Dr. Vijay Vakharia, a board-certified physician in both internal medicine and cardiology, has practiced medicine in Broward County for over thirty years. Taking care of patients and helping people live their healthiest lives is a family affair. Together their practice strives to provide comprehensive and compassionate care to the local community.

Dr. Anand Vakharia was drawn to primary care at an early age. He shadowed his father often, and witnessed first-hand the trust and respect that his patients gave him, and the quality of care that was expected. He also had the privilege of attending several medical missions which further reinforced the impact of empathetic health care on not the patient but their entire family. “These experiences were enriching and humbling, and I returned from each with a broader perspective in treating patients at home.”

Today, Dr. Vakharia practices Primary Care at Broward Community Medical Center in Plantation.

■ To make an appointment with Dr. Anand Vakahria call 954-747-7373 or visit www.bcmcfl.com

Carlo A. Messina, DPM

FOOT AND ANKLE SURGEON South Florida Institute of Sports Medicine

Carlo A. Messina is a board-certified foot and ankle surgeon practicing podiatry in West Broward since 2009. He specializes in treating foot, ankle and leg injuries in infants, children, teenagers, and adults.

He graduated from the Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine and completed his residency at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, IL.

He also completed a fellowship with the German Foot and Ankle Society in 2009.

His interests include treatment of complex deformities and trauma of the foot and ankle in children and adults. He lives in Weston with his wife, Victoria, their son, Sam, their daughter, Victoria, and their French Bulldogs, Mapache and Nya. He is a Fellow of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons and is Board Certified by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery. Dr. Messina continues to be active in the local communities.

■

To make an appointment with Dr. Messina or learn more about South Florida Institute of Sports Medicine call (954) 430-9901 or visit

www.SouthFloridaSportsMedicine.com

THE

Pancreatic NanoKnife Tumor Ablation for Advanced and Oligo-Metastatic Pancreatic Cancer

If you are being treated for advanced or oligometastatic pancreatic cancer you may want to contact Dr. Robert Donoway at ATLAS ONCOLOGY in Hollywood, Florida.

Dr Donoway is using multi-modality therapy combining Pancreatic NanoKnife Tumor Ablation with chemo-immunoradio therapy to treat advanced stage cancer patients from around the world after they have stopped responding to standard of care therapy and have been left with few options for further treatment.

With over 32 years of experience performing pancreatic surgery in south Florida, Dr Donoway recognized that because of late diagnosis, up to 85% of patients treated for pancreatic cancer already had metastatic disease at the time of diagnosis. This fact limited the benefit many patients might receive from pancreatic surgery, which is problematic as surgery has been long held to be the only reproduceable therapy for cure; whereas in reality surgery is currently more likely Palliative in almost 80% of the cases.

Recent evidence shows that when even advanced disease is treated aggressively in an integrated approach, incorporating NanoKnife surgery with chemotherapy and now supplemented with immunotherapy, long-term survivorship can be achieved, especially when compared to chemotherapy alone.

Dr Donoway has been a pioneer in the use of pancreatic NanoKnife, especially for complex cases. During the past decade, patients from around the world have traveled to benefit from

this groundbreaking treatment by Dr Donoway, which is FDA approved. Dr Donoway also treats other advanced cancers, such as liver, Breast, and sarcomas, using NanoKnife Surgery based on its FDA approved guidelines. Patients experience a brief recovery, which means the patient can start chemotherapy and radiation that much sooner.

Dr Donoway feels that “we are long overdue to revise our approach to treating Pancreatic Ca. The treatment history been largely unchanged for over 80 years and has just broken the 10% five year survivorship barrier. Only thru thinking outside the box will we accomplish the positive. Otherwise, all we’re doing is confirming Einstein‘s definition of insanity.”

Dr Donoway is involved in ongoing research in identifying the best chemo-immuno therapy and sequencing to be used along with Pancreatic nanoKnife/IRE . Dr Donoway states, “the results so far have been very encouraging and we have begun using it for other select cancers. Among his longest survivors are now patients over nine years without evidence of cancer recurrence. In the past, without IRE they would have lived a little over a year, and so this technique opens a whole new avenue for treating those eligible patients in a more targeted fashion.”

Dr Donoway has presented his results of pancreatic ablation at the recent annual meeting of the American Pancreatic Association. For more information about Dr Donoway and the pancreatic IRE/NanoKnife program call 954-986-6366 or visit www.atlasoncology.com

ATLAS ONCOLOGY

Robert B. Donoway, M.D., F.A.C.S., F.S.S.O. Surgical Oncology & Pancreatic Surgical Oncology

Dr. Robert Donoway is a Board Certified Sloan Kettering trained Pancreatic surgical oncologist, who received his MD and surgical training at the University of Pennsylvania. At Sloan Kettering he was the General Motors Pancreatic Cancer Research Fellow. Dr Donoway is a former Director of the Memorial Regional Cancer Center (now the Memorial Cancer Institute) and Chairman of the Cancer committee for the Memorial Healthcare System as well as a former Chief of Surgery and Surgical Oncology at Memorial Regional Hospital in Hollywood, South Florida.

Dr Donoway served on the Board of the American Cancer Society and Gildas club. He has also served as past president of the American Cancer Society Broward chapter and serves on the board of trustees of the Ancient Spanish Monastery.

Dr Donoway is active in the The American and International Hepato-Pancreatico-Biliary Associations, The Pancreas Club, Society of Surgical Oncology and the American Pancreatic Association. His accomplishments include being the first surgeon in Florida to perform radio frequency ablation as well as laparoscopic major liver resection. He is the former recipient of the South Florida Health Award for use of micro-endoscopy for the detection of early stage breast cancer.

Dr Donoway has been repeatedly named to Top Doctor‘s in America by Castle Connolly. Dr Donoway is one of only a few international surgeons performing advanced multi-modal pancreatic and liver ablation therapy for non-resectable tumors.

Robert B. Donoway, M.D., F.A.C.S., F.S.S.O.

Medical Director, ATLAS ONCOLOGY: Institute for Pancreatic Ca IRE NanoKnife Ablation

Former Medical Director Memorial Cancer Center (Now- Memorial Cancer Institute)

Looking for the Opening Straight Drive Down the Middle of the Fairway?

By Dean Sklar, PGA Professional

It’s a great feeling to stride off the first tee knowing you have hit your ball straight down the middle of the fairway. It’s a huge boost to your confidence and any self-doubt you may have had immediately disappears. It’s a given that when you hit it straight from the very start you set up great momentum for the rest of your round.

Realistically speaking it’s a fallacy to think you can hit dead straight golf shots all of the time. Here are some tips and drills to help you hit a straight shot.

Try to avoid being too tense – Work on removing tension from your wrist and forearm muscles and learn instead to swing freely. A cluttered mind will always add tension and therefore start to improve by reducing the number of different swing thoughts in your head. It is far easier to release the club through impact without tension because a relaxed muscle is faster than a tense one. In addition, less tension makes it far easier to rotate your shoulders and hit the straight shot you are looking for.

Swing with a neutral grip – The key to hitting it straight comes from maintaining a neutral grip. Focus on some of the key check points including counting the number of knuckles you can see when you address the ball. Ideally you will see only two knuckles on your left hand; anymore and you are likely to hook the ball. Equally, check the number of knuckles visible on your right hand. You should see no

more than three; anymore and you are likely to slice the ball. In conclusion, the right hand controls the swing path and the left hand controls the angle of the clubface.

Set up correctly to the ball – Line up your feet, hips and shoulders parallel to the ball to target line at address. In lining up square to the ball to target line, make your life easier by picking a spot about six feet out in front of the ball to represent this imag inary line. Check that your left shoulder faces the target, perhaps the flag stick on a par 3. Check the direction of your divots – Check your divots to determine whether you are hitting the ball with a square clubface. Your divots will clearly tell you the angle at which you struck the ball. If they are pointing directly at the target you need to go back to basics making sure your feet and shoulders are lined up properly.

Determine the correct ball posi tion for each club – It varies for each club and therefore it is critical you set up your ball position correctly at address. For pitching wedges and short clubs, the ball should be positioned in the middle of your stance.

Always see your local PGA Professional for lessons as they are the ones to help you have more fun out on the course.

▸ PGA Professional Dean Sklar is a member of the Quarter Century Club of the PGA of America, an elite group of members who have served the PGA with honor and pride for 25 years. If you would like to talk to Dean about your golf game, contact him at Dean@SklarTeam.com or visit Rose and Dean Sklar at Coldwell Banker online at www.SklarTeam.com.

CELEBRATING OUR CITY FORT LAUDERDALE

The Publishers and Staff of Our City Fort Lauderdale celebrated the launch of our eighth and newest magazine at Tarpon River Brewing. We were joined by friends, city leaders, business leaders, and community members for a fantastic time. The food and ambiance were outstanding; we loved the craft-brewed beer and can’t wait to return soon. Thank you, everyone!

Pet of the Month

“Enzo”

This is our rescue baby boy Enzo. He loves riding in the car, playing ice hockey with ice cubes on the tile floor, and snuggling. He’s quite the talker, and has brought us so much joy!

Collaboration Creates Greater Impact in the Community

By Jaye Abbate

Helen Keller famously said, “alone we can do so little, together we can do so much.” That concept forms the basis for Rotary Fort Lauderdale’s annual community activities. “Forging strong community partnerships is how we are able to have maximum impact in the community every year,” says Jaye Abbate, president of the Rotary club this year. The all-volunteer service organization engages in dozens of projects annually that enrich the community. From literacy initiatives and global aid programs to beach, park, and neighborhood improvement projects that benefit dozens of charities, Rotary was able to touch 30,000 lives last year by aligning with strong partners.

Preeminent among those partnerships is the City of Fort Lauderdale’s volunteer network, managed by long time Rotarian Jorg Hruschka. His knack for pairing key community needs with the people power Rotary can provide has been a key catalyst for transforming neighborhoods, parks, and non-profits for the public good. This year, to mark Rotary Fort Lauderdale 100th anniversary, the club ambitiously set out to participate in a record 100 community projects. Hruschka was able to facilitate so many worthwhile projects in partnership with the City of Fort Lauderdale that the club completed 105 projects to date.

“The collective efforts of the city, the volunteers, and the Rotary Club members partnering together for the greater good has a profound effect on individual lives and our community as a whole,” notes Abbate. “Working alone, our club does some wonderful stuff. But partnering allows us to truly embody our mission of “service above self.”

Global partnerships help fund schools and clean water wells in Africa, the Caribbean and other countries, wheelchair donations around the globe, and disaster relief supplies wherever they are needed, to name a few projects. “Rotary Fort Lauderdale always welcomes new partnerships with non-profits and other organizations because together we really can do so much.”

To propose a partnership with Rotary Fort Lauderdale or request more information contact RotaryFtLaud@gmail.com or visit RotaryFortLauderdale.com.

Rotary is where neighbors, friends, and problem solvers join together to have fun and make the world a better place. Visit a Wednesday club meeting or volunteer on a project.

Every month Our City Media randomly picks a pet of the month winner.

to:

Send Pet’s: Best Picture, Name and about 50 words describing why

Your Name, Email,

and

1ST STREET CARS & COFFEE HAD SUPERCARS AND SNACKS!

First Street Cars & Coffee hosted fans, family, and auto enthusiasts as they checked out some of the finest machines on earth. Gear-heads of all ages took selfies with Ferraris, Lamborghinis, Bentley, and more. Saturday morning was a beautiful time to experience the cars. We can’t wait till next month!